Slot machines don’t have rules, right? Sure, you just spin the reels and see what happens? That was probably true in the past, but slot games have evolved dramatically, and the gameplay has become much more sophisticated. The games use RNGs (random number generators) to determine the outcome, yet there are certain inputs that you make to tailor the game towards your tastes. Below, we have provided a brief on the rules – and some tips and guidelines – for online slots:
CHOOSING YOUR BET
The first and most simple step: Adjust your bet to a stake that suits your playing style. Most online slot games can be played for just a few pennies, but they are able to accept bets of hundreds of dollars per spin.
PAYLINES
It’s probably easier to find an online slot machine with dozens of paylines than it is to find one with a single payline that you would associate with classic ‘fruit machines’. With many slot games, you can adjust the number of paylines. However, it’s important to check the rules, because some jackpots can only be triggered when the maximum number of paylines are activated.
BONUS FEATURES
Almost every slot game will now have at least one special feature. This is a side game, which is triggered to and sometimes played on a second screen. The bonus games can resemble interactive board games, or simply be a set of free spins with enhancements added. It’s important to know that these games are relative to the value of the triggering spin, so it’s wise not to continually adjust your bet.
PROGRESSIVE JACKPOTS
Progressive jackpot games use software to build up huge prizes – potentially worth millions – that can be triggered by any spin. The prizes are awarded randomly, but your chances are nevertheless increased by playing for a higher bet. You should take this into consideration when playing a progressive jackpot game, perhaps by playing for a slightly higher wager than usual (if you can budget for it).
WAGERING REQUIREMENTS
Many casinos give bonuses once you first sign up. To check the most up-to-date bonuses at casino.com – click here – and you can get an idea of what’s on offer. However, bonuses aren’t just free cash, they must be played through a number of times before it can be withdrawn. This stipulation is usually called wagering requirements. Slots are usually the best option to meet these requirements, as table games countless to the turnover, but you should make sure that your chosen slot is not excluded.
VOLATILITY
We mentioned that slots are run on RNGs, which guarantee a fair and random outcome. However, games can also have different ‘temperaments’. That is to say that some slots will be programmed to have higher wins that occur less frequently, whereas others will have smaller wins that occur more frequently.
RTP
Each virtual game will have a listed RTP (Return to Player). Effectively, RTP is house edge for virtual games. It is tested by independent auditors, then usually published on the casino site. However, different games will have different RTP ratings. Cinerama slot, for example, has a high RTP at 98.4%, whereas Leprechaun’s Luck has a much lower RTP. It doesn’t mean you won’t win – remember what we said about volatility – but it can be an important part of your strategy.
KEEP IT FUN
The fundamental rule for playing slots is to keep a cool head: Only spend what you can afford; take a break if you have been playing along while; never bet when you are angry or frustrated; set a target for wins and losses; and, keep in mind that the house (usually) always wins.
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